DOCTRINAL CONVICTIONS

The church at Antioch, featured in Acts 11:19-15:41, has always been a shining example to me for what a New Testament church needs to be. I have preached numerous messages about this. One series I have looks at “The Model Missionary Church,” from Acts 11:19-21; “The Model Church Member,” in Acts 11:22-26; “The Model Church Leader,” in Acts 11:27-30. So, is it any wonder that the title of Jeff Iorg’s book called, “The Case for Antioch: A Biblical Model for a Transformational Church,” captured my attention? In chapter six, he states that one of the marks of this model church is “Doctrinal Convictions.” Here is how Iorg begins:

Doctrine can be a polarizing word. It sounds dry and boring to some, divisive and legalistic to others. Churches sometimes soften their doctrinal positions, or at least mute their intensity, to lessen this tension and become more attractive to unbelievers. That effort, though well intended, is a misapplication of Paul’s example of becoming “all things to all people, so that I may by all means save some” (1 Cor. 9:22). Flexibility in missionary lifestyle doesn’t equal and must not include compromising doctrinal integrity, especially truth about the gospel. In Antioch, Paul broke new ground in contextualizing the gospel’s presentation but without compromising its message. On the contrary, he undertook extreme measures to defend its purity. Jesus taught a clear gospel. Paul and other New Testament writers articulated its theological nuances as well as its implications for daily living. Healthy churches uphold the gospel and its discipleship demands for believers. Transformational churches stand for truth rather than dilute the message and explain away its requirements for holy living. (pp. 98-99, Kindle edition).

He goes on to note that at Antioch, they established hills “to die on.” These were fundamentals of the faith worth fighting for, and yet there were other matters of preference, instead of principles, that should not divide the church. This was codified in a major church business meeting in Acts 15. The outcome of that was an explosive evangelistic expansion into Gentile territory. Our message must be defended, but methodology can be debated, and that way the mission is not distracted. The old axiom is: “In essentials unity, in non-essentials liberty, in all things charity.”

Saying this is one thing, and doing it another matter. Just read the New Testament! You will see the application of this principle quite challenging. Yet, it, it must be done. Here is how we try to work it out in the churches I serve in the Haywood Baptist Association.

We have essentials that are stated in The Baptist Faith and Message 2000.  To be part of our association requires these be affirmed. Sadly, during my time serving in the role of Mission Strategist, we have had to remove one of our churches that would not align with this doctrine. We will be united in these essentials. There is no room for debate.

But, within that there are non-essentials where we call for liberty. For example, we have pastors and churches that while agreeing that salvation is solely by grace through faith in Christ, differ on exactly how that salvation comes, some holding to traditional Baptist evangelism methods and others defending a Reformed view. All of our pastors and churches believe that Christ is literally coming the second time, judging the world, and that in eternity there will be a heaven for the saved and a hell for the sinners.  Yet, there are varied views on how this will work out. It makes for some interesting debates in Pastor’s Conference, and especially around the lunch table following. 

That calls for charity—for Christian love among the brethren. I will not compromise my views on soteriology (the doctrine of salvation) in my preaching and teaching. I am not a Calvinist, but I can work with, love, and support those who are, so long as they believe, “Jesus saves!”  Nor will I personally bend in my eschatology (the doctrine of last things), as I am a dispensationalist who believes in the rapture of the church and the return of Christ to reign for a thousand years on earth. We have preachers and churches who see the way the end times works out differently, yet I can embrace them and encourage them so long as they affirm, “Jesus is coming again!”

This can be messy. It was in the first century and it still is in the twenty-first century. But, we cannot compromise our core convictions. Sound doctrine must be embraced and taught in our churches. When “love” becomes an excuse to tolerate anything and everything in beliefs and behavior it is not truly love. It is liberalism and licentiousness. We must also guard against legalism where we make mountains out of molehills and turn our personal preferences into dogma. 

May the Holy Spirit guide us through the Holy Scriptures to steadfastly hold to doctrinal convictions!

ANOINTED AS ANTIOCH

The Gospel had come to the Gentiles. The power of the Holy Spirit led to breakthrough in the city of Antioch. In his book, “The Case for Antioch,” by Jeff Iorg, he presents the first characteristic of a transformational church as being spiritual power, using Antioch as the model, (pp. 42-59, Kindle edition). He points out that “three specific references to the Holy Spirit,” are stated in Acts 11:24, 28, and 13:2-4.  I would say that the Spirit’s work is summarized in Acts 11:21 with this: “the hand of the Lord was with them.”

The church was birthed at Pentecost by the coming of the Spirit in life-giving power. The book of Acts is not so much the Acts of the Apostles, as it is the Acts of the Holy Spirit (using the Apostles, of course). Then, as the church followed the Spirit’s direction and experienced the Spirit’s dynamic, we see a global move of God unleashed that has changed the course of history for eternity!

The reality is that, “All is vain unless the Spirit of the Holy One comes down,” as the old hymn says—calling us to pray as the people of God for such a Divine encounter. If the hand of the Lord is not with us, then ZERO of eternal significance will be accomplished. Maybe we get kudos here and are recognized in the denominational press, but Jesus said, “for without  Me you can do NOTHING,” (John 15:5b, emphasis added).

Our world does not need what human hands can accomplish in the energy of the flesh. All that will transform lives is a church where the hand of the Lord is at work in the power of the Spirit!  Certainly, He will work through us—we are the Body of Christ—but it will not be by human ability, but heavenly anointing that life-giving and life-changing results are seen. Let us seek with all our heart that in our preaching of the Word, our assembling for worship, and our going out in witness to be anointed as Antioch.

THE OPEN DOOR

Philadelphia—the name signifies, “the city of brotherly love.” How appropriate then for a church to be birthed there, for love for our Father and for our fellowman is the Great Commandment to Christ’s followers. Out of that flows the church’s commitment to the Great Commission—to reach the lost, baptize them into the fellowship, and disciple them. This church at Philadelphia is pictured as “the church of the open door.”  Christ holds the key and has unlocked the door to evangelism. 

We must seize the opportunity while the door is open. There are three mandates for a missionary church. These are the featured in Revelation 3:8 where Jesus declared. “I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.”

First, we must have A POWER THAT IS SUFFICIENT. “I know your works…you have a little strength.”  From the human perspective, this congregation would not seem impressive. The numbers of people, financial resources, and community influence was minimal. These are often ways we gauge a church’s impact from a human perspective. Yet, what we have here is a heavenly perspective. Jesus says, “I know your works,” and commends them for being a great church as He gauges it. That is the only evaluation that matters! 

An old song says, “Little is much when God is in it.” A shepherd’s staff surrendered to the Lord could be used to part the Red Sea. 300 warriors obedient to God could route an enormous army camped against them. A stone in a slingshot hurled by a young lad could bring a giant to the ground. A pot of oil could be poured out over and over to be used to pay the debt a widow owed. Five loaves and two fish placed in the hands of Jesus could feed 5000. An old rugged cross where Jesus gave all would be the means of redemption. Twelve common men sold out to Christ would turn the world upside down!

Second, we must have A PERSEVERANCE THAT IS EVIDENT. “I know your works…for you…have kept My word.”  Our responsibility is faithfulness and God’s is to produce fruitfulness. We sow the seed and the Lord of the Harvest brings in the crop. Let us not consider what the world wants in order to shape our appeal to them and thereby miss what God requires—obedience to the truth, that is, faithfulness to the Word. An open door that welcomes all sinners to hear the Gospel must never be an open door to allow false doctrine and compromised morality to invade the church. We are to seek the stray sheep, not build a barn for goats. We say to anyone and everyone, “Come,” but to those who would be saved, “Repent!”

The Risen Lord would specifically commend them, “Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth.”  Because they would keep steadfast, God would keep them secure. Their perseverance would bring their preservation.

Third, we must have A PROFESSION THAT IS DEFINITE. “I know your works…for you…have not denied my name.”  The missionary church is not about publishing its fame, but proclaiming Christ’s name. “ ‘Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved,’ ” (Acts‬ ‭4‬:‭12‬‬). The faithful church is not one to promote the messenger, the music, or the ministries, but to preach the Master!

The name of Jesus is the great dividing line—the difference between heaven and hell. It will be an open door to those who will be saved and an offensive name to those who are to be damned.  The church of the open door preaches that name and lets the chips fall where they may!

The letter closes with this appeal:

“ ‘Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown. He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new name. ‘ “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” ‘  ” (Rev. 3:11-13). 

Are we listening?

CHRIST’S LAST WORD TO HIS CHURCH

In Revelation 2-3, we have seven messages to seven churches. These churches were real people in real places with real potentials and real problems. Yet, in these we have vital lessons for all churches of all locations and for all time.

Each one begins similarly, “To the angel of the church…” and ends with, “He who has an ear, let Him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”  The Greek word translated, “angel,” literally means, “messenger,” and most often refers in the Bible to a heavenly messenger—a celestial being. While that is possible here, nowhere else in Scripture do we read of a specific angel assigned to a local church. Instead, I think it more likely as descriptive of a human messenger—the shepherd of that local flock. The first eyes to look on the letter would be the one responsible to proclaim it to the congregation. 

What a great opportunity!  The pastor has the privilege of hearing from God that He might speak for God. Yet, this is also a grave responsibility! We are not only in a privileged, but a pivotal position as God’s representatives. Pastor, you are an angel—don’t act like a devil!  One day we will stand before the Lord and be judged accordingly.

In each letter, the Lord identifies Himself in a specific way according to the particular needs of that local congregation. “I know your works,” is the declaration of Christ to each church. What ultimately matters is not what the congregation thinks of itself, nor what the community thinks of the church, but what Christ knows about that local assembly. He knows it all—nothing is hidden to His eyes, “like a flame of fire,” (2:18). The Lord commends the church for the good He discerns (and there is some good in all but one—Laodecia, the lukewarm church that nauseated Him).  The Lord confronts the church for the problems He detects (and there is some in all but two—Smyrna, the persecuted church that was faithful to Him—purified by fiery trials and Philadelphia, the missionary church—the church of the open door). There is the promise of a particular reward for each church that would hear and heed the message.

Those local churches were comprised of individual members. Should even one respond in faith and obedience, there is the promise of reward. Surely, the pastor is the first one who needs to submit to the authority of Christ in His church. If He will submit and then share the Word, as members one by one do likewise, then there is hope for the Lord’s blessing on that fellowship. 

“He who has an ear, let Him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”  We are called to “overcome,” the world, the flesh, and the devil. God gives us His Scripture to guide us and His Spirit to empower us through faith and obedience.

Preacher, it starts with you. God has placed you and your congregation strategically to make a difference for Him in this time and place. Will you?

THREE TYPES OF CHURCH PEOPLE IN THIRD JOHN

Church members have great potential and also can cause grave problems. Some are to be commended and others confronted. John does both in his third letter. 

Those commended serve as bookends to the one confronted. So, the Apostle commences and concludes the epistle on a positive note. The middle section pulls no punches in exposing a problem person in the congregation.

First, he describes GAIUS THE GENEROUS, (v. 1-8). Old John loved this man. He prayed for him to prosper materially and physically in measure as he did spiritually. He knew Gaius would be a good steward of his time, talent, and treasure, for Gaius had demonstrated his love for the Lord and support of the needy. John rejoiced in how Gaius was walking in the truth. He knew that when missionaries came to the church, Gaius would support them in their work. Such church people are a great joy to their pastor!  I have known many such generous souls across the years that God blessed in order for them to be a blessing. 

But, secondly, John turns to DIOTREPHES THE DOMINATOR, (v. 9-11). He was a “church boss,” a member who acted as a mobster. He sought the preeminent position of power. He wanted in the spotlight. His attitude was like that of some members I have known, “I was here when the preacher came and I will be here when he leaves—and if he doesn’t watch out, he will be gone sooner than later!”  Such are troublemakers who like to throw their weight around. They have a venomous tongue and spout “malicious words.” Such must be called out or they will do great harm to the Gospel work. Sadly, the Devil has these planted in many churches. 

Thirdly, the Apostle ends with a glowing word about DEMETRIUS THE DEVOUT, (v. 12-14). Those who knew him were quick to laud him. If you took the plumb-line of Scripture and placed it beside Demetrius, you would see how straight he was doctrinally and morally!  John was delighted in such devotion. As discouraging as a Diotrephes can be, a Demetrius is heartening. People like this fuel the pastors fire to go serve the Lord. They serve as deacons, teach Bible studies, care for children, prepare the building for the worship service, greet the newcomers, collect the offering, and on and on we might go. They are often unsung heroes who shun the spotlight, but the Lord is taking note and their reward waits in glory!

Thank God, that having pastored churches for around a half century, I have had the joy of seeing many generous and devoted souls like Gaius and Demetrius. I will admit I have been wounded by a few seeking domination, but when they demanded that I leave, so far they were the ones who eventually left!  So, preacher remember that those who are for you are usually more than those against you. Supremely, since God is for you, who can be against you?  If Diotrephes has his way and runs you off, shake the dust off your feet, and move on to your next assignment! Jesus—the only perfect Preacher was rejected, so we must not think we can please everyone!

SERVICE AND NOT SERVE US!

 Too many churches are “self service” organizations.  They have members who demand that the ministries of the church, “serve us,” when the Lord intends for members to be ministers engaged in service of others. Consider this devotional thought from Stephen Olford:

“I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day.” – John 9:4 

The true principle of all real service for God underlies this statement of the Lord Jesus. And since He was the perfect Servant when upon this earth, He made this principle the basis of His loyal service to God.

The Obligation of True Service. The Lord Jesus said, “I must work.” The obligation of loving and loyal service to His Father compelled Him to work. Yes, right from the beginning (remember the temple when He was twelve years old?) to the end. 

The Occupation of True Service. There is only one great occupation in true service – it is doing God's will. I must work the “works of Him.” “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me,” said the Savior (John 4:34). 

The Opportunity of True Service. “While it is day.” Now is the acceptable time … “Time is short” (1 Cor. 7:29). 

I can do nothing else but serve You, Lord, all of my days, 
For it is a privilege and an honor – yes, even my duty! (According to Your Word, Stephen Olford, p. 76, Kindle Edition).

 

 

THE CONGREGATION OF THE COMMON

  

There were a relative handful of those who held the reins of power and abundance of possessions who followed Jesus. One thinks of Joseph of Arimathea, Nicodemus, and a few women of Herod’s household. Matthew and Zaccheus had been wealthy, but surrendered their status and substance to follow Jesus. There was an occasional ruler of a synagogue and Roman centurion, but that is about it.

The vast majority of those who received Christ’s words were common people. The peasant Prophet had a receptive audience in the poor, needy, outcasts, and such. Jesus had a message of hope to those who were the dregs in the bottom of society’s cup. The common people not only heard Him, but “heard Him gladly”!

One is reminded of Paul’s words:

“For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence.”  (I Corinthians‬ ‭1‬:‭26‬-‭29‬‬)

There is an uncommonly great message for the common people.  

Notice it does not say “not ANY wise…not ANY mighty, not ANY noble,” but “not many,” so we need not abandon all hope of reaching those who are scholars, successful business leaders, and in positions of power. Yet, only a handful of the “upper crust,” will respond to the Gospel. It is a sad reality.

Yet, the preacher need not despair, for he will often have a listening ear among those who are struggling to survive from day to day. In almost a half century of preaching the Gospel my experience attests to this. I have embraced it and seen people lifted from the depths of depravity and despair to the glory of being children of God!

So, stop complaining if this is the makeup of your congregation. Jesus was not “too good” to preach to such a flock, though He was the King of Glory, and only perfect Man. I can be like Jesus in serving the congregation of the common. May I be found preaching in the nursing home, the prison, the homeless shelter, and in the little brown church in the wildwood.  I do not have to speak from an elevated pulpit in a massive cathedral or on a spot-lit stage in a high-tech mega church facility.  If God calls me to such, then it is grace, but wherever—it is for His glory.

Matthew West put it this way in song lyrics:

Why You ever chose me
Has always been a mystery
All my life I've been told I belong at the end of the line
With all the other Not-Quites
With all the Never-Get-It-Rights
But it turns out they're the ones You've been looking for all this time

'Cause I'm just a nobody
Trying to tell everybody
All about Somebody who saved my soul
Ever since You rescued me
You gave my heart a song to sing
I'm living for the world to see
Nobody but Jesus
I'm living for the world to see
Nobody but Jesus

Moses had stage fright
And David brought a rock to a sword fight
You picked 12 outsiders nobody would've chosen
And You changed the world
Well, the moral of the story is
Everybody's got a purpose
So when I hear that devil start talking to me, saying
"Who do you think you are"
I say...

I'm just a nobody
Trying to tell everybody
All about Somebody who saved my soul
Ever since You rescued me
You gave my heart a song to sing
I'm living for the world to see
Nobody but Jesus
I'm living for the world to see
Nobody but Jesus

To this I say, “Soli Deo gloria!”

THE FLOCK OF GOD

The flock of God is the focus of 1 Peter 5. In concluding his letter, Peter offers a word of exhortation, (v. 1, 12), to the church—God’s flock. It is an exhortation to the shepherds and to the sheep. 

He begins with THE CHARGE TO THE SHEPHERDS, (v.1-5). The example of the shepherds and their exposition of the Scriptures are vital for the health of the sheep. As shepherds, pastors are called to feed, lead, and bleed for the sheep. They feed them by proclamation of the Word, lead them by demonstration of the way, and are willing to bleed for them in provision for their welfare.  

These do not work for material gain, but wait for eternal glory. This labor is not to be viewed as a drudgery we’ve got to do, but as a delight we get to do!

The gravity of our responsibility as pastors rests in the reality that the church is not ours, but belongs to Christ. They are not cattle to be driven by domineering, but sheep to be led by demonstration. While we will certainly exhort them, we must be an example to them. You better practice what you preach!  Jesus loves every lamb and we had better. There will be an accountability faced at the Judgment Seat of Christ. If we have been faithful to care for the flock, a special crown awaits the shepherd. 

There is no place for egotism. It is a grace that we are called to serve and it is grace that enables us to serve. Let us clothe ourselves—not with robes of royalty, but dress ourselves in humility.

Peter, then moves to THE CAUTION TO THE SHEEP, (v.6-14). The enemy of the sheep—the devil—is a ravenous, roaring lion. Lambs are no match for lions. They are not fast enough to flee and not fierce enough to fight. Yet, as we humbly admit that, we have available the power of God to strengthen us. Indeed, we are no match for the devil, but he is no match for the Chief Shepherd!  

So, this is a call to humility, (v. 6). A prideful attitude assures us of being overcome. It turned a beautiful angel into a demonic spirit, and Satan uses the same ploy to get at us. 

There is further a caution against anxiety, (v.7). The roar of the lion is meant to paralyze us with fear. We are to cast all our cares on the Lord, knowing that He cares for us!

Then, we have a command for sobriety, (v. 8 ). By no means do we ignore the peril with naïveté, but have an awareness with sobriety. We are not to be afraid, but we are to stay alert. The danger is real. The devil wants to destroy and devour the flock. 

We must have stability, (v.9). Do not race off, but brace up!  Should we have to suffer for our stand, do not back down. Satan will use his minions to attack us. He hates us. This world is not a friend to grace. Others have suffered for the cause across the centuries, and in many countries do so today. Why should we think to be the exception?  

Trust in God’s sovereignty, (v.10-11). The Lord reigns!  Christ is conqueror. The grace of God will usher us into the glory of God. 

Abide in the community, (v.12-14). We are not in this alone. There is a community of faith to encourage us. Love on one another. There is a refuge in the church for the believer—an oasis of peace. We may have peace of mind, because of our peace with God through the Lord Jesus Christ!

Amen.

HOLD ON!

If you knew that today would be your last day on earth, what would you want to say to those you love?  

What I would say to those who are the church family I have served for the last quarter century is contained in an envelope. I wrote it and had it on my desk since 2014. 

None of us are promised tomorrow. I thought, “If I died suddenly, what would I want Pole Creek Baptist Church to know?”  

Well, I am leaving, but hopefully in my Camry and not a casket. I have resigned effective December 31st. 

So, this series of devotional messages for the month of December is called, “Before I Go: Some Final Instructions.” These will be taken from Paul’s last letter in 2 Timothy. Paul was on death row, and wanted to give his young protege some final instructions for the church.  

His first call is to “Hold on.” (1:13). How can we hold on?  That is what we plan to explore this week.

WHO’S YOUR ONE? Day 29

The Mission Cannot Fail

“And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overpower it.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭16:18‬ ‭CSB‬‬

God will build His Church through the faithfulness of His people. The mission is great, but He promises this mission will not fail! No matter the enemies who come upon us as we seek to share the gospel with our one, the gates of Hell will not prevail against the Church. The message of the gospel will continue to go forth despite famine, calamity, persecution and hardship. Be encouraged that you are on a mission with God’s people that cannot fail. His power working in and through us will keep us in the fight until the day he makes all things new.

Pray for endurance despite persecution and hardship of the Church as we continue to share the good news of the gospel with the world. (From “Who’s Your One?” Devotional, NAMB)

FOR THE SAKE OF THE CHURCH

“I now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ, for the sake of His body, which is the church, of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God which was given to me for you, to fulfill the word of God, the mystery which has been hidden from ages and from generations, but now has been revealed to His saints. To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. To this end I also labor, striving according to His working which works in me mightily.”
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭1:24-29‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

The church will not rise above the level of commitment expressed by her leaders.  Paul was passionate and productive, “for the sake of His body, which is the church” (Col.1:24).  I want to challenge every leader—myself included—to elevate their effort for the sake of Christ’s body, the church.  I want to challenge those who are not in positions of leadership to pray for and encourage those who are—and to consider getting busy yourself!

There are several imperatives for us to follow in Colossians 1:24-29.

1. SUFFERING FOR THE CAUSE (v.24)   Why did Paul joyfully suffer?  It was for the cause of Christ; for “you,” he says—meaning the church.  We are familiar with the physical fitness mantra, “No pain; no gain.”  That is true spiritually, as well.  Every leader God uses has been forged in the fire of difficulty.  This wasn’t theoretical to Paul.  Note the word, “now,” and be reminded that as he was writing it was from a prison.  He was suffering in jail—his only crime being faithfulness to Christ.  But, he rejoiced!

2. STEWARDSHIP OF THE CAUSE (v.25-27)   Mark the word, “stewardship.”  It’s about more than money.  Paul was called to be a “minister.”  That word has to do with service.  Each of us has a work to do for God.  A steward was a household manager who took care of his master’s assets.  That’s what we do in the House of God.  Paul was a minister of the Word—a mystery he was unveiling.  The Apostle was part of a great movement to spread the Gospel around the world.

3. SUCCESS IN THE CAUSE (v.28)   Paul was a man of focus!  Benjamin Disraeli said, “The secret of success is constancy of purpose.”  D.L. Moody stated, “Give me a man that says, ‘This one thing I do,’ not ‘these fifty things I dabble in.’”  Paul had a laser-like intensity in his mission—to proclaim Jesus!  This is the church’s mission and is to be the leaders’ passion.  We cannot allow anything to distract us.

4. STRENGTH FOR THE CAUSE (v.29) Spiritual responsibilities demand supernatural resources. We are not smart enough to lead the church properly. We are not strong enough to lead the church productively. God wants to work in us and through us. This work is the work of God and He alone can do it, but remember this lesson I heard from John Maxwell years ago, “Apart from God, we cannot, and apart from us, God will not.”

GOD’S RULE OVER THE CHURCH

“giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins. He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.” (Col.1:12-18).

God claims dominion over all that He paid for.  I have the right over something I have made, but also for what I paid for.  Paul declares that Christ is the head of His church.  He bought us by His blood.

We are RECONCILED TO HIM.  We were estranged from God, but He reached out to reconcile us to Himself.  He calls, He justifies, and He glorifies.

 “For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.” (Rom.8:29-30).

God is sovereign in salvation.  He is the One who provided a Savior and sought His lost lambs.

Thus, we should be RESPONSIVE TO HIM.

“Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” (1 Cor.6:19-20).

He has every right to reign over us. We belong to Him and it is His glory we are to seek.

Ultimately, this means we will be REIGNING WITH HIM.

“And I heard, as it were, the voice of a great multitude, as the sound of many waters and as the sound of mighty thunderings, saying, ‘Alleluia! For the Lord God Omnipotent reigns! Let us be glad and rejoice and give Him glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready.’”  (Rev.19:6-7‬)

Christ is our Bridegroom.  Since He is the King, His Beloved—His Bride, the church—will reign at His side.  God has a glorious future in store for us!

PRAYING FOR YOUR CHURCH

In anticipation of the gathering of the saints for worship on this Lord’s Day, we need to pray. As the old hymn aptly states,

“Brethren, we have met to worship and adore the Lord our God;
Will you pray with all your power, while we try to preach the Word?
All is vain unless the Spirit of the Holy One comes down;
Brethren, pray, and holy manna will be showered all around.”

That we should pray is indisputable. Yet, what exactly should we pray for—some general prayer for blessing?  General prayers are often generally unanswered. Paul gives us some specifics:

“For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might” (‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭1:15-19‬ ‭ESV‬‬).

Meditate on these truths, then bow and pray with fervency and faith that God will do this among His people. We do not even have to tack on, “If it is Your will,” for we know it is!  The will of God is expressed in the Word of God.

What a difference this will make in your life, and in the worship experience of the congregation!  Such a prayer for your preacher is vital. Spurgeon was a pretty decent pastor, yet he said, “No man can do a truer kindness in this world toward me than to pray for me.”  If he needed prayer, I assure you that your pastor does!

COMING HOME

Home—home is where the heart is.  The word summons images of a mother scurrying around the kitchen preparing a delicious meal for her family. It reminds us of the strength of a father’s arms lifting us up when we fall down.  There is the remembrance of the family Bible on the table.  We can almost smell the coffee perking in the morning, when we would rise to get ready for school, or of cookies in the oven when we came open after school.  So many memories.  Maybe you are making some for your family today.  Those children will remember for good or for bad—indelible impressions imbedded on their soul.

I think of coming home to God.  The prodigal son went to the far country and squandered his inheritance on wine, women, and wickedness.  When he ran out of money, he ran out of fair-weather friends, and his heart turned toward home.  There was a Father waiting with open arms, to forgive and restore—a son once dead, now alive; lost, but then found.  Have you come home to God?  Have you repented of your sins and raced to your Father’s house?

I think of returning home to church after wandering for a while.  Old Jacob couldn’t get along with his brother, was a bit of a disappointment to his father, and off he went away from Bethel (the word means the house of God).  Then came the day of his return.  Back to Bethel, back to the house of God and the rebuilding of an altar, in a restored relationship with the Lord, that was profound.  He would never be the same.  Jacob had a bit of a limp after that—a wrestling match with God he won by losing—but it was a sweet reminder of God breaking him in order to bless him.  Have you drifted out of church involvement?  Have you intended to come back?  Must God break you to get your attention?  Come back to the house of God—we will welcome you!

I think of going home—our real home in heaven.  There is coming a glad day when we reach that place we were fashioned for.  Home—safely home—in the glory of God’s radiance, to see Jesus face to face and fall in awe at His nail-scarred feet, to abide in the overwhelming presence of the Holy Spirit, and to see the saints of old while we embrace loved ones who died in faith.

Homecoming Day, September 9, is a time set apart to remind us of this holy trinity of truths.  The day begins at 10:30 in the auditorium.  In the words of the old Gospel song, “Oh what singing; oh what shouting; On that happy morning…!” when we have a joyous family reunion.  We hope Dr. John Tiller will be able to lead us to the throne of grace in prayer.  A very old Bible belonging to a charter member will be presented.  We will have a choir ranging from little children to senior saints.  Caitlin McCarson will join the choir in soul-stirring music.  Her husband Derrick will bring us God’s Word.  There are a number of other exciting things planned! Following the service, we will have a delicious dinner on the grounds.  The finest cooks in the world will prepare it—the members of Pole Creek. As we complete the meal we will move across the road to dedicate our beautiful new pavilion to the glory of God, and have an outdoor baptism!

Come home!  And bring somebody with you!

THE CHURCH: WHAT AND WHY?

The church is a big deal.  I know that many want to see the church as just an antiquated organization with little relevance to their daily lives.  Even a growing group, who say they are followers of Christ, will behave as though the church is not significant for them—they believe in Jesus, but don’t need the church to be a Christian.

It’s just not so.  A child needs a family.  A football player needs a team.  A worker needs a business.  A soldier needs an army.  A student needs a school.  There are a great many things you can do as an individual.  Being a Christian is not one of them.  Yes, our response to Christ is an individual decision, but that decision is made as the result of a witnessing community, the faith is to be professed publicly in baptism, our spiritual growth occurs in a fellowship of disciples and disciple-makers, and our spiritual gifts are designed for the church to engage in its ministries and mission.

I might quote an abundance of verses that drive home this point.  Suffice it to say that the entire New Testament teaching concerning Christianity concerns life in the church—and that very few references are about the church as a global, spiritual body of believers, but most present the church as a local body of saints, the church at Ephesus, the church at Rome, the church in Corinth, and so forth.

If I had no other Bible verse than this one, I would see the church as a very big deal: “Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her” (Eph.5:25b).  The value of something is determined by what someone is willing to pay.  If Jesus values the church so much He was willing to die for her, that makes Pole Creek Baptist Church a big deal.  In the end the church will judge angels, reign with Him, and share His glory.

So, what is the church and why does it matter?  The next five sermons will deal with the nature, function, governance, teaching, and responsibility of members to the church.  It is a big sermon series because the church is a big deal.

A CENTURY OF IMPACT

In a matter of days, Pole Creek will be celebrating a birthday—a big one!  It is hard to believe, but for 100 years this church has been a beacon of light in the Candler community—whose impact reaches around the world.  That is what a missionary church does—and that is what Pole Creek has been, and by the help of God will remain until Jesus comes!

Pole Creek was birthed in the red-hot fires of revival, and we pray the fire will keep burning as we have a revival scheduled for Homecoming weekend.  Young Derrick McCarson, who grew up in Pole Creek—shaped by its ministry—will preach on Friday night, September 9 at 6:45 PM.  Along with our choir, special music will be provided by his wife, Caitlin.  Derrick now serves our sister church, Liberty, just down the road.  God has his hand on that young man.  Dr. Doug Ferguson will preach on Saturday, September 10 at 6 PM with his wife, Joan, singing for us.  When I came to Pole Creek’s staff twenty-one years ago, Doug was the Senior Pastor.  How I was blessed by the ministry in sermon and song from this godly couple!  They now serve Heritage Hills in Conyers, Georgia and are doing a great work.  Sunday morning starts early, 10:30 AM worship (no Sunday School) with Dr. Johnnie Tiller preaching.  Dr. Tiller will have just turned 90, and we are praying the Lord will give him great stamina to share with us that day!  He has made a huge impact on many for the kingdom in a lifetime of Christian service.  Of course, we will eat all the delicious food you bring when Homecoming concludes with fellowship around the table.

It is a good thing to remember what God has done and give Him thanks.  That is what the children of Israel did when God parted the Jordan River miraculously and brought them into the Promised Land.

And those twelve stones which they took out of the Jordan, Joshua set up in Gilgal. Then he spoke to the children of Israel, saying: “When your children ask their fathers in time to come, saying, ‘What are these stones?’ then you shall let your children know, saying, ‘Israel crossed over this Jordan on dry land’; for the Lord your God dried up the waters of the Jordan before you until you had crossed over, as the Lord your God did to the Red Sea, which He dried up before us until we had crossed over, that all the peoples of the earth may know the hand of the Lord, that it is mighty, that you may fear the Lord your God forever.” (Joshua 4:20-24)

Remembering the past would give them a foundation for the future.  There was much to celebrate, but much more to do!  Let us be inspired by the past, but recognize that these “stones” have been put to place to give a platform for future ministry.  I refuse to accept the premise that Pole Creek’s best days are behind us—wonderful as they have been—but, that God is going to do incredible things in the years to come!  Let us pray, trust, and obey so if time lasts another 100 years, Pole Creek will still be shining—a light of hope for the world!

THE COEXIST CATASTROPHE

Then one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls came and talked with me, saying to me, “Come, I will show you the judgment of the great harlot who sits on many waters….”  (Revelation 17:1)

You have seen it—the coexist bumper stickers—that feature symbols of a number of major world religions spelling out the message: “coexist.”  I sympathize somewhat with the intent—if we mean that we should not hate others and grant them freedom of religion—that is not bad.  God gives us freedom to choose—to even choose to be wrong.  True faith cannot be coerced.  I would warn my readers, however, that although you are free to choose your faith, you are not free to choose the consequences.  Belief in Jesus Christ is the exclusive way to heaven—all other roads lead to hell.

The message of the coexist movement is actually more sinister.  Most who brandish it on their bumper sticker mean that all religions are equally valid—that all roads lead to deity—however you perceive that deity to be.  Come together in one world religion and global governance will be the increasing demand.  Revelation 17 tells us that day is coming—and far from being the utopia many imagine—it will be a coexist catastrophe.

The reason is that in the depraved heart of man, in a world under the curse, everything becomes twisted and bent toward evil.  The one world government becomes tyranny and not freedom.  The one world religion promotes intolerance in the name of tolerance.  As observed in this text, when an unholy marriage of church and state takes place, government will give religion a ride as long as it serves its purpose, and then will turn on the religious system and devour it.  That is the catastrophe of the coexist movement—it is a fantasy that ends in the worst fanaticism.

Following the rapture of the church—which I am looking for any day now—the Bride of Christ will be caught up to be with her Bridegroom.  The remarkable thing is that the next Sunday there will still be churches open for business.  Those left behind follow the doctrine of the apostates and not the Apostles.  Quickly, as the Beast—the Antichrist—consolidates his power, the world religious system of the Harlot—Mystery Babylon—converts the world to the worship of the Beast (v.1-5).

There will be those who resist, however—and their lot will be that of those dissenters through the ages—who have sought to worship the true God and gave allegiance to Christ exclusively—and that is persecution and martyrdom (v.6).  

Babylon is the wicked womb that has birthed all false religion—and she has spawned many perverse children.  You recall the tower built in Babel—a great idol temple that sought to elevate man to the heavens in order to supplant God.  In the last days, a final attempt is made to restore it.  Rome—the city of seven hills (v.7-9)—will be the headquarters.  Did you know that pagan Rome with her persecution of Christians was nothing compared to the torment and death unleashed by the church of Rome that supplanted the heathen empire?  A marriage of an apostate church and pagan religion promoted by a decaying empire looking to preserve its power was the result—a counterfeit church.  Its final manifestation will be the counterfeit church of the coexist religion.  Once religion serves its purpose, the world’s leaders will chew her up and spit her out (v.10-18).  I don’t want to belong to that church!

THE PERSECUTED CHURCH

 

Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.  (Revelation 2:10c)

For over two centuries, the church in America has enjoyed exceptional freedom.  The laws of the land have assured the right to worship.  For much of that time there has been great respect and influence by Christianity in American life.  I say it is exceptional because for much of church history it has not been the case, and in places today believers will be imprisoned, tortured, and martyred.  There is every indication this is coming to America.  The verbal assault of strident secularism, as well as the government moving from benevolent, to benign, and now toward belligerence concerning religion is evident.

In the first century, persecution from the pagan world was commonplace and would intensify.  As Jesus speaks to seven representative churches in chapters two and three of Revelation, His message to the church in Smyrna was one of consolation to a persecuted people.

Jesus begins by addressing the angel of the church (2:8).  The word means, “messenger.”  In most places, this refers to heavenly messengers, but in these seven letters, I believe it speaks of human messengers.  God’s letter to the church is delivered to the pastor who will proclaim it to the people.  We know from church history that the pastor of Smyrna was Polycarp—burned at the stake for his faithfulness to Christ. 

The letter is directed to the assembly of the members (2:8), the church at Smyrna.  The town’s name came from their trade in exporting myrrh.  Myrrh is an aromatic resin made from a small, thorny tree.  The word myrrh means bitter.  It was used for embalming.  How appropriate for a church that would know bitterness and death.  Jesus commended them without complaint.  He consoled them without chastening them.  All of the other churches in these letters—even the really good ones—have problems that Jesus addresses, but not this assembly.  The fire of refining had purified them.

Jesus is the Author of this letter (2:8) and the way He describes Himself is most instructive.  He is “the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life….”  Men may come and go, tribulations begin and end—Christ is eternal, unchangeable, invincible, even conquering death.  That was the hope and encouragement to these suffering saints, and to the persecuted today also.

The accomplishments of this church are presented next (2:9).  They were faithful despite the hostile environment.  Their church wasn’t respected—it was hated.  We are told today that the successful church is one that adapts its message to the culture.  It is the church that is welcoming to seekers.  The model churches of American evangelicalism scrupulously avoid the political and making moral pronouncements.  Yet, Jesus commended a church that was hated.  Furthermore, many popular voices today tell you that faith leads to financial prosperity.  This church contradicts that false gospel.  They weren’t celebrated, but lied about and persecuted.

These afflictions would bring wonderful attainments, however (2:10).  Satan would strike them, yet a Sovereign God would sift them with suffering.  There were limits set on the span of their persecution and the church would emerge stronger from being tempered by fire.  Jesus promised to reward them with the crown of life.

He closes with an appeal (2:11).  It is a personal one—for a church is only as strong as its individual members.  The overcomers may not evade the fire here, but are promised exemption from the fire hereafter.  We are not saved because we overcome, but we overcome because we are saved.

DON'T JUST SIT THERE!

Now there were four leprous men at the entrance of the gate; and they said to one another, “Why are we sitting here until we die?  (2 Kings 7:3)

We’ve often heard the expression, “Don’t just sit there—do something!”  That’s akin to the question of the four lepers we read about in 2 Kings 7, “Why are we sitting here until we die?”  The Syrian army had besieged Samaria and the Israelites were dying of starvation.  The four lepers weren’t welcome in the city because of their loathsome disease.  Even if they could sneak in, they would be only starve.  So they came up with a hare-brained idea, if there ever was one.  They would go to the enemy’s camp and seek food (7:4).  If they killed them, they would be no worse off, for they were dying a torturous death.  Even if they killed them, it would be a quick end to their suffering.  But just maybe they would toss them a few scraps.  To maintain the status quo was certain death. 

That will happen to a church.  It is the sad script being written by many churches today.  They sit on the pew and become “pewtrified.”  They are resistant to change.  They are afraid to take a risk.  I say, “Don’t just sit there—do something!”  There are some valuable lessons to learn in this story.

This was an act of DESPERATION (6:24-33).  Things in the kingdom were desperate indeed.  In the last verse, the king essentially says, “I give up!”  But, at “Wit’s End Corner” God’s grace is found!  God arranges circumstances to bring us to the end of ourselves, so that we might trust fully in Him.  Desperation paves the way for a miraculous deliverance.

Like the citizens of Samaria, the enemy has us surrounded.  We have turned from conquering our foes to consuming our family.  Think about how many churches spend their time cannibalizing each other, rather than assaulting hell!  There is a famine in the land—but not of food—of the Word of God (Amos 8:11.)

God’s preacher gets the blame.  When sports teams start losing, what do they do?  Fire the coach!  What about the players?  Sometimes a coach isn’t effective, but the best coach can’t win without good players.  It wasn’t Elisha’s fault.  The team wasn’t following the rulebook. Many find it easier to point out a scapegoat than to plot out a solution.

This was also an act of DETERMINATION (7:1-8).  It isn’t enough to give up.  We must then get up!  Too many are sitting on the premises instead of standing on the promises!  God can work in the direst circumstances and in the darkest hour.  But our deliverance will not come from human methods, but heavenly might.  Elisha was talking about a miracle. But that miracle will come through some people who get up and do something. God won’t work apart from us.  Never was there a stranger plan carried out by more unlikely people.  They refused to just sit there!  God doesn’t need our ability, but our availability. 

This was furthermore an act of DECLARATION (7:9-20).  When we give up and get up, we must then go out!  There is some news to tell.  If a church just sits there it will die, but if it will go out into the community with the good news of Jesus Christ it will not only survive, it will thrive!  The unbelieving miss the miracle. Those who reject the Gospel, will one day see in heaven what they missed before they are cast out.

WHAT DO YOU WANT THE CHURCH TO BE?

 

For though I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.  (Colossians 2:5)

What do you want the church to be?  That is a question that can bring many answers.  There is no shortage of opinion, or of people willing to express it.  The reality is that those opinions will vary so greatly, that it would be impossible to shape the local church to suit such diverse expectations.  Sadly, much of this is rooted in self-interest and personal preference that leads to a tug of war in the membership.  The pastor may feel like the rope being yanked!  Might I make a radical suggestion?  The church needs to be what Jesus wants it to be!  The pastor hopefully is being led by Him as he seeks to communicate that word to the church.  The people we trust are in tune with faith and obedience in following Christ’s agenda.  What Paul says in Colossians 2 would be a wonderful starting point for the church God wants.

IT WOULD BE A CHURCH THAT EXPRESSES SACRIFICIAL LOVE (v.1-2a).  Paul speaks of his conflict for the church—not with the church!  That’s a big difference!  He was a fighter, but he knew who the enemy was.  He was fighting a spiritual battle for the sake of the church.  Love will do all it can to protect those in their care.  I know I would fight to the death to protect my loved ones from harm.  If we love the church we are willing to pour out our lives to preserve her.  Not only do we face the Devil as an enemy, but discouragement.  So the Apostle goes on to exhort them to encourage each other.  Then, there is the problem of division.  God wants our hearts knit together in love.  Without that, the fabric of our fellowship unravels.

IT WOULD BE A CHURCH THAT EXPERIENCES SPIRITUAL LEARNING (v.2b-4).  The early church had a breadth of fellowship, but also a depth of doctrine.  The church today is plagued by Biblical illiteracy.  Spiritual learning is marked by embracing the truth (v.2b-3).  The Greek language suggests becoming progressively more acquainted with God.  Some people think being spoon fed for an hour on Sunday will give them all the Bible they need.  Such brings an impoverished soul.  We must get into the Word day by day so our lives will be enriched with truth.  People will say, “I need practical teaching,” and by that they want therapeutic moralism—which is what pulpits and devotional books are churning out in evangelicalism today.  Your soul will shrivel.  There is nothing more relevant than the Word of God taught in depth and power.  Paul says this is the way to understanding and wisdom.  Spiritual learning also is marked by exposing the false (v.4).  Think of it as promoting a spiritual immune system that guards the church from false teaching.  Error acts like a deadly virus invading the body.

IT WOULD BE A CHURCH THAT EXHIBITS STEADFAST LOYALTY (v.5).  The “good order” Paul calls for is a military term of soldiers standing shoulder to shoulder in battle formation.  The church needs to stand together like the 300 Spartans who resisted a far larger force and though perishing turned the tide against the Persian invaders.  This requires, “steadfastness.”  We will not desert the church.  We will dig in our heels.  The church is a band of brothers.  May we be loyal to the end!